Defiance OH to test treated water for toxins : Cynatoxin toxic to Pets, livestock, and Humans

Water Testing Continues

Toledo Blade reports: (Defiance OH) Officials will test the city’s water treatment plant for the toxin microcystin again on June 7, 2016 after an algae bloom developed on the Maumee River here during the weekend. On Friday, officials learned the first reported algal bloom of the season had a toxin level of 19 parts per billion in the Maumee. World Health Organization has a recommended action level for recreation of 20 ppb, and the EPA recommends that tap water not exceed 0.3 ppb for drinking by young children.

The algae in the river bloom is planktothrix. Both microcystis and planktothrix produce the liver toxin microcystin, which, if ingested in high enough doses, can kill people. “This is first bloom I can remember that’s planktothrix,” Mr. McDowell said.

Planktothrix algae produce a specific Anatoxin-a variant cynatoxin with acute neurotoxicity. The symptoms are: Tingling, burning, numbness, drowsiness, incoherent speech, salivation, respiratory paralysis leading to death.

Exposure/Ingestion highly toxic to Pets, Livestock, Humans

If you, a family member, a pet or your livestock come into contact with water that is known to be contaminated with cyanotoxins, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you rinse off with clean, fresh water as soon as possible. Remove people from the source of exposure and give them supportive treatment. Seek medical treatment right away if you think you or someone you know might have been poisoned by cyanobacterial toxins, especially when any of the symptoms mentioned above are recognized. 

Ohio Veterinary Association Warns: Information about cyanobacteria poisoning in animals.

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